Tuesday, June 6, 2017

What is a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc can cause more than a sore back. It can create stiffness, numbness and tingling in extremities, and it can result in a change of lifestyle. At Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA, we are committed to helping our patients understand their conditions and then helping them to get back to a healthy life.

To understand what disc herniation is, it will first help to know what a spinal disc is. Spinal discs are between all the individual vertebrae in the spine. They are a rubbery, disc-shaped cushion that has a softer center. These cushions absorb shock and allow the spine to be flexible. A herniated disc is when some of that softer part pushes through a small tear in the tougher, rubbery outer layer. When the herniated material presses up against a nerve, that is when problems begin to arise.

A herniated disc can cause pain to the area where it is and it can cause pain, numbness, and weakness to the area of the body that the nearby nerve is traveling to. For example, a herniated disc in the lower back can cause sciatic nerve pain that shoots down the leg. The symptoms of a herniated disc can range from nothing at all to severe. It is important to find out the cause of any pain, numbness, or weakness to find out if the condition could be dangerous or not.

If you are experiencing back pain or numbness and tingling to the extremities, be sure to seek medical attention to rule out a life-threatening condition. Then, make an appointment with Summit Chiropractic and Longevity Center in San Rafael, CA so we can help you get back to feeling good. To schedule an appointment, call our office at (415) 721-7520 or visit our website, www.summitchiro.net.